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www.iowalivingmagazines.com/urbandale JUNE | 2015 Urbandale Living 3

WELCOME

LivingLivingIowaIowam a g a z i n e sm a g a z i n e s

Darren TromblayEditor515-953-4822 ext. [email protected]

Becky [email protected]

H er name was Tinker. She was an overweight, 14-year-old, mis-marked Boston terrier. Admittedly, she wasn’t much to look at, but she was a good dog in every sense. I realize that nearly every

10-year-old boy says his dog is a good dog, but mine truly was. My mom taught her well, and Tinker worshipped the ground she walked on — liter-

ally. She followed Mom’s every footstep all day, every day. More than once, Mom tripped over Tinker in the yard with a basket full of clean laundry that was about to be hung on the clothesline. Those were not good moments for Tinker. But most were. Tinker set the bar for me in determining what good dogs should be, and I cried my eyes out the day she died. Fast-forward 30-plus years .... Running my own business, I thought it would be nice to bring a small dog to work. That didn’t work out so well. This dog, a miniature pinscher named Roxy, followed me like Tinker did my mother. After tripping over her a handful of times,

I decided that Roxy was best suited to be at home. Before she died, we found another min pin, and I gave him a try at work, too. Max proved to be neurotic. One of his most annoying habits was his continual howling over the sound of a ringing telephone. This was not a good thing in a business. Max now comfortably howls at telemarketers who call our home during the day. Our third min pin, Colby, is a good dog. At 4 years old, he loves to play and to inspect everything. But when he accompanies me at work, I shut my office door and he relaxes in his dog bed next to my desk. It’s not an everyday thing, and he joins me in the office more often after regular business hours, but he is a good work dog all the same. I just don’t have the courage to let him roam the office, as he would scoot out the front door with ease. As much as I like this dog, he is more interested in exploring new territory than he is in following in my footsteps. In this month’s cover story, we share examples of people who have made their canine — and other furry or scaly companions — part of their family. Thanks for reading.

Shane GoodmanPublisher

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FEATURE

P icture a big, brown-eyed, black and tan dog star-ing up at you.“Hey, may I go home with you, please?”

“Well, OK then,” she says. And the rest is history, as far as the forever home that Big Hoss finally found. Lori Bochner believes in rescuing animals in need of homes. When her family was ready to take on the responsibility of a dog, she knew what she had to do. “We choose to adopt because these precious ani-mals are homeless and didn’t ask to be put into their tough situation,” she says. “They deserve to be part of a family. Although a purebred animal is nice, too, there are just so many dogs that need homes, we feel like we can’t abandon them to buy a breeder dog.” Bochner says she feels it is important for kids to be raised with pets in the house, and dogs are extremely special, in her opinion. “I think it’s important for a family to have pets because they add love and care to a family,” she says. “Teaching kids how to care for a living thing and show compassion. Plus — especially with a dog — they are a friend that provides unconditional love.” Big Hoss earned his name in true-blue, size-designated fashion and was able to charm his way into the Bochner family’s life. “He is a mutt, probably a mix between a Rottweiler and mastiff,” Bochner says. “He’s got the coloring of a Rottweiler, but the big head and drooling face of a mastiff. We were looking for a dog to adopt,

By Lisa Verhey-Budding

Big Hoss with his owners Jim and Lori Bochner. Photo by Dan Hodges.

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and when we met Big Hoss, he was so sweet and such a big clumsy lug, we just couldn’t resist.” Bochner also says that Big Hoss does a couple of standard tricks, such as sit and lie down, but only if there are treats involved. He is also very protective of his fam-ily, especially his favorite, Bochner’s 19-year-old daughter Miranda. “He’s pretty scary-looking due to his size, but he’s really a big chicken when it comes down to it,” she says. Bochner and her family feel truly blessed to have Big Hoss in their lives. They say he is just as much a member of the family as any one of the humans. “We love him because he’s had a rough life, and we feel so grateful to AHeinz57 (a rescue organization in Dallas County) for rescuing him so that we can give him the loving home he deserves,” Bochner says. “He loves to snuggle in bed with us and just follow us around the house. His facial expressions are a

riot, and he even wears his goofy snowman sweater with pride all year round.” So, with Big Hoss taking up plenty of room in the Bochner household, you would think that would be it as far as pets go in the house. Not true. Chompers is a male bearded dragon. He doesn’t take up much room but gets a lot of attention. “We got the lizard when my son Zach was 10 years old as a birthday present. He looked so cool. Zach decided to name him Chompers because he thought it was a cool name,” Bochner says. Even a lizard can be charming and have endearing qualities. “I love the way he drinks his water. He shoves his whole face in,” she says.

A real-life “fraidy cat” — that’s GizmoJulie Rynan is the proud owner of one of shyest cats in town. Gizmo is an 8-year-old black tabby cat.

FEATURE

Chompers, the Bochner’s bearded dragon. Photo submitted.

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“I’ve had Gizmo for about seven or eight years,” she says. “I got him when he was just a kitten. I say he’s three-quarters chicken because he’s scared of other people.” Rynan says Gizmo is smart and does a couple of special tricks that keep her entertained. “Probably the only real trick he does is disap-pear every time the door bell rings or someone knocks on the door,” she says. “He chases his tail but has never caught it. However, he does sit for minutes at a time staring at it, waiting for it to move so he can try to grab it again. I keep telling him he’s the one that makes it move, but apparently he doesn’t believe me.” Rynan likes owning a cat because it is easy to take care of and can be left home alone for long periods of time. Gizmo keeps her company, while keeping her on her toes when the workday ends. “One evening he was scaring himself in the sliding glass doors ... seeing his reflection and running up to it in all Halloween black cat mode (arched back and poofed up tail) and I went ‘pssst’ real loud at him. He jumped two feet in the air, hit the floor and hid under the chair,” she says. “Then, realizing I’d done that to him, he came running up behind me smacking my legs as I left the kitchen.”

Here a quack, there a quack, every-where a quack-quack…No, Old McDonald doesn’t have a duck farm in Urbandale. However, Amber Winters has some mighty fine city ducks in her backyard. Winters currently has three adult Rouen ducks named Moe, Scarlett and Olivia. She also has one 7-week-old duckling named Oden. Rouen ducks look like mallards but are much larger, 10 to 13 pounds on average. Winters said that her husband, Wade, has

had ducks of various breeds for more than seven years. “Once many ducks mature and realize they can fly, they soon leave us into the great big world of ducks,” she says. “This breed is wonder-ful as they are considered a large duck breed, and their wings are not strong enough to carry their body weight. They can be very docile so they make great pets.” Winters has two daughters who are big fans of the family’s ducks. Kassidy, 7, and Valerie, 9, are instrumental in taking care of the fine-feathered friends. The Winters girls each weighed in with something special to say about raising ducks: “It is cool because you get closer to nature and learn how interesting and comfortable ducks can be with humans,” Val says. “You learn to see them in the same light as dogs and cats or other normal household animals.” “I love when they swim and dive under the water,” Kassidy says. They are so cute!” “The kids love that they are unique crea-tures, and yet they take on a personality similar to a dog or cat.” Winters says. “Ducks are pack/flock animals, so once they are comfortable with humans they will interact with them. The ducks

will come down from pond to greet us when we get up in the morning or return home just like a dog meeting you at the door wagging its tail.” Having the ducks has also been a lesson-in-life experience for the Winters kids. There is a nest of eggs, with some now missing from a preditorial invasion. “We started with over 20 eggs from both hens,” she says. “She has rolled some from the nest as they were not viable eggs, but the rest were taken, and we have 10 left. One afternoon I heard Olivia in the yard squawking very loudly because five eggs had been opened and the con-tents sucked out. Judging by the size of the hole in the egg, a crow used its beak to break the egg and suck out the growing duckling. Olivia refused to return to the remaining eggs until I removed the now-empty eggs. She was very defensive. She actually charged at me with her head down.” The Winters own a landscaping business called Lawn Jockeys, so the building of the duck pond was a no-brainer for husband Wade. “The pond was originally made for fish, so after a day’s work you could take your rod up there and spend time fishing,” she says. “It was quite a bit of work, but seeing the ducks swim and dive in the water is amazing.”

FEATURE

Amber Winters and 7-week-old duckling, Oden, take a minute for some snuggle time. Photo submitted.

Julie Rynan is the owner of Gizmo, an 8-year-old black tabby cat. Photo submitted.


T his is a quick and easy casserole to satisfy hungry appetites. It is economical, too. In Colorado, we have lots of kinds of green chili sauce available, but if they are thin on the ground in Iowa, just use

your favorite salsa. This casserole is mostly a matter of opening a few cans and is the closest I usually get to packaged food. It would be even better made with fresh veggies as those peppers and tomatoes come out of your garden.

RECIPE

TexMex casseroleIngredients1 pound ground beef1 tablespoon olive oil or canola oil½ yellow onion, diced1 diced green pepper, optional½ teaspoon garlic powder1 teaspoon oregano1 teaspoon dried cilantro2 tablespoons chili powderSalt and pepper to taste1 box Jiffy corn muffin mix1 egg1/3 cup milk1 can black or pinto beans, drained and rinsed1 can corn, drained or 1½ cups frozen corn1 14-ounce can of Rotel or diced tomatoes1 jar green chili sauce (about 1½ cups)2 cups finely shredded taco cheese½ wheel of cotija cheese, crumbled

(optional)

Directions1. Spray a 9-inch x 13-inch pan with oil and prepare the corn muffin mix according to package directions. Spread in a thin layer on the bottom of the pan and bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes.2. While the corn bread layer is bak-ing, sauté the ground beef with the oil, onion, green pepper, garlic powder, chili, cilantro, oregano. salt and pepper.3. When the corn bread comes out of the oven it will not be entirely baked. Spread the meat and spice mixture in an even layer over the top. Then spread the beans. Layer on the corn, tomatoes and green chili. Top the cas-serole with the shredded and crumbled cheese and bake for 25 minutes. 4. Serve with sour cream and salsa.

Dish is quick, easy, economical and satisfying

By Kris Ellis Tracy

TexMex casserole

WHERE WE LIVE

O nce upon a time there was a home built on a very steep hill. A home

builder built this home and the front yard was a beautiful front hill. In 1998 Cindy Walker pur-chased the home. The steep front yard required studded golf shoes and most excellent balance. Her desire to garden was challenged. Instead of trying to mow the front yard, Walker had it terraced and professionally landscaped to what it is today — a thriving flower garden with much to find — colorful birdhouses, a table for two and iron yard ornaments. Amongst all that are blooming iris, Urbandale’s flower — the Shasta daisy — daffodils, lots of hostas and ornamental grasses. Lilies will bloom next, lilacs bloomed earlier and white clematis in the fall. While all this presents itself each year, Walker’s May yard work includes potted flowers and maintaining three water features. The backyard of the Walker home is just as interesting. Once all farm land, this area still boasts the original farm home that was the only home at one time. With that home came — and still exist today — a farm pond. As luck

would have it the Walker resi-dence overlooks this pond. “I love living here because it really is like living in the country right in the middle of the city,” Walker says. The pond invites red fox, deer and the sound of bullfrogs. The green of the mature trees and the distance of other homes make for the perfect country setting. Inside this 1993 two-story home is new carpet, hardwood and tile floors. There are new effi-cient windows and new siding on the outside. The neighborhood is very friendly with kids and activities for all ages. Walker enjoys her little free library in her front yard as well. “It’s just a great neighbor-hood,” Walker says. “It’s relaxed, quiet and country-like.” What Walker enjoys most about Urbandale is the fact that it’s really like a small town in the middle of the city. “Urbandale is big on support-ing our local businesses,” she says. “We have a wonderful police and very skilled fire department. It’s an easy place to be involved since I’ve retired.”

Terrace beautyWalker enjoys nature all around her homeBy Rainey Cook

Cindy Walker enjoys a slice of the country in her Urbandale home. Photos by Rainey Cook.

Contact Darren Tromblay at 953-4822 ext. 304 or [email protected] to be featured in a future “Where We Live” column of Urbandale Living.


LEGAL BRIEFS

A power of attorney is an instrument in which you designate another person

to act on your behalf. A financial power of attorney is “durable” in the sense that it survives inca-pacity. If you become unable to manage your own financial affairs, your agent can use the power of attorney to pay your bills, manage investments and prevent the waste of your assets. A power of attorney can be a useful tool to ensure continuity in your affairs if you are unable to tend to them yourself. The instrument is not subject to court approval or rejection and can only be challenged under limited cir-cumstances. It allows another per-son to step in and make decisions

about your financial affairs. However, a power of attorney involves a high degree of trust between you and your agent. You must ensure that the person acting on your behalf knows your wishes and is ready to carry them out. You must also be certain that the agent will not abuse the position, since he or she will have control over your property and assets. Financial exploitation can be subtle. Family members may ask a cognitively-impaired person for repeated loans they never intend to repay. Others will write them-selves checks, expecting that the senior won’t notice or won’t remember. Some may justify a gift of money to themselves because they are looking after the senior

and feel that they deserve some-thing in return. A trusted agent can abuse a power of attorney to drain a bank account. Elder financial abuse can be financially and emotionally devas-tating. Incidents are on the rise because of a slow economy and an aging population. You can take some basic steps to protect your-self, your assets, and your loved ones. Be suspicious if an elderly per-son becomes socially isolated, has a new “best friend” or companion, is unavailable to come to the phone, or is hesitant to have con-tact others unless the caregiver is present. Be alert to missing property, large or unexplained withdrawals

from bank accounts, reimburse-ments or gifts to caregivers, unfa-miliar signatures on checks, and changes in spending patterns. Preventing financial exploita-tion often requires taking legal precautions. Your agent can act on your behalf and can do anything with your money, even without your knowledge. Consider care-fully to whom you give financial power of attorney and make sure that it is drafted by a competent attorney.

Information provided by Charlotte Sucik, attorney for Abendroth and Russell Law Firm, 2560 73rd St., Urbandale, 278-0623, www.ARPCLaw.com.

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F or the past few months my articles have been about transitioning into retirement.

As we enter the second phase of life, it is as unfamiliar as the first phase was. The unknown creates anxiety and uncertainty. I am exploring some of the different phases of this transition process in hopes of providing you some general information to aide you in the process. My article today is about the consideration to downsize. For many of us, the thought of down-sizing can be overwhelming. For many, this is the home where they raised their family. The memories that were created in your home are priceless. These memories hold all the “firsts.” Then there is all the stuff. Throughout the years there has been an accumulation of belong-ings. The idea of going through these things can be daunting. Again, some of these items are priceless, yet they have no real value other than sentimental value. Unfortunately, the senti-mental value may only resonate with you. Other family members or friends likely won’t see the value in your “stuff.” Downsizing can be an emotional process at any age. However, downsizing can be a positive experience with the proper preparation. Starting the conversation about downsizing sooner rather than later gives time to prepare emotionally. One way to help this to be a more positive experience is to start the process before it becomes an urgent necessity. You’ve heard the saying that “when emotions

are high, logic is low.” The saying certainly holds true in this situ-ation. A health event often will force people into making quick decisions. When health events occur, emotions are high. Be pre-pared with a plan for downsizing Here are a few things to consider before you put the “for sale” sign in the yard: Are you really ready to simplify your life? Think it through. Consider the proximity to grandchildren. Do you plan to include working as part of your retirement life? If so, are there opportunities that appeal to you in the location you are consider-ing? downsizing. Reducing housing costs is a quick way to increase your retirement saving. Lessening home maintenance is a way to simplify your life and reduce the physical and financial responsibili-ties of a larger home. More to come next month on the continuing process of transitioning into retirement.

Information provided by Susan Ray, The Reserve, 2727 82nd Place, Urbandale, 515-727-5927.

The process continues with downsizing

Transitioning into retirementBy Susan Ray, executive director, The Reserve

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CALENDAR

Thursday June 4

Family Story Time, 9:30 and 10:15 a.m., Urbandale Public Library

DMCS V Boys State Soccer Tournament

DMCS JV/V Baseball vs. Earlham, 3:45/5:45 p.m. @ home

DMCS JV/V Softball vs. Earlham, 5:30/7:00 p.m. @ Earlham Sr HS

DMCS JH Softball vs. Van Meter, 10:00 a.m. @ home

Urbandale Library Pet Show, 1:30-3 p.m.,

UHS Baseball: 9/10th vs. Dowling, 11:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. @ Urbandale

Business Technology Expo, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Imaging Technologies/M and M Sales Company

Friday June 5

Book Babies, 9:30 a.m., Urbandale Public Library

Toddler Time, 10 a.m., Urbandale Public Library

Northwest Rotary Meeting, 11:45 a.m. Urbandale Golf and Country Club

Tee It Up For Lupus, Charity Golf Tournament, 12:30 p.m., Beaver Creek Golf Club

Tennis: Girls Varsity State Tournament, 9 a.m. @ Urbandale

Saturday June 6

Tennis: Girls Varsity State Tournament, 9 a.m. @ Urbandale

Welcome to Medicare, 10 a.m.-noon, Urbandale Public Library

Fido on the Farms, Bring your well-behaved pup to tour the museum in the morning, and enjoy an afternoon in Walnut Hill with activities and demonstrations for dogs and their people. 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Living History Farms

Sunday June 7

Urbandale Community Swing Band, With Ice Cream and Pie! 2 p.m., Calvin Community

Monday June 8



Minecraft, 4 p.m., Urbandale Public Library

Urbandale Community Adult Band Concert, 7 p.m., Lions Park Gazebo

UHS Softball: 8th vs. Dowling, 9 a.m. @ Urbandale

UHS Baseball: Varsity vs. Johnston, 5 p.m. @ Urbandale

Tuesday June 9



Family Story Time, 7 p.m., Urbandale Public Library

Booked for Dinner, 6-7 p.m. Urbandale Public Library

Urbandale Park Public Art Committee, noon, Urbandale City Small Conference Room

City Council Meeting, 7 p.m., Council Chambers

UHS Baseball: JV vs. Johnston, 11:30 a.m. @ Urbandale

UHS Softball: 9/JV/V vs. Johnston, 1/4:15/6 p.m. @ Urbandale

DMCS Baseball: vs. Madrid, 10 a.m. @ Home

DMCS Baseball: JV/V vs. Madrid 3:45/5:45 @ Home

DMCS Softball: JV/V vs. Madrid, 5:30/7:00 p.m. @ Home

Wednesday June 10


Baseball: 9/10th vs. Mason City, 11:30 a.m./5 p.m. @ Urbandale

DMCS Baseball: JV/V vs. Coon Rapids, 3:45/5:45 p.m. @ Home

Thursday June 11


Geocaching for tweens and teens, 10 a.m., Urbandale Public Library

Kevin Horner Comedian & Ventriloquist 7 p.m., Urbandale Public

Library UHS Softball: 8th vs. Waukee,

9 a.m. @ Urbandale UHS Soccer: Girls Varsity State

Tournament @ James Cownie Complex

Friday June 12




Soccer: Girls Varsity State Tournament @ James Cownie Complex

Kevin Horner Comedian & Ventriloquist, 10:30 a.m., Urbandale Public Library

UHS Baseball: JV/V vs. Boone, 5/7:30 p.m. @ Urbandale

Saturday June 13

UHS Soccer: Girls Varsity State Tournament @ James Cownie Complex

Urbandale Craft Beer and Food Festival, noon-4 p.m., Walker Johnston Park

45th Anniversary Reunion, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., Living History Farms

DMCS 9/JV vs. Council Bluffs, 10 a.m. @ Home

Sunday June 14

Urbandale Community Adult Band Concert, 1:30 p.m., Lions Park Gazebo

Monday June 15




Urbandale Community Swing Band Concert, 7 p.m., Lions Park Gazebo

Magic Tree House, 7-7:45 p.m., Urbandale Public Library

House and Home Exhibit, 9 a.m.-

4 p.m., Living History Farms UHS Softball: 9/JV/V vs. Waukee,

1/4:15/6 p.m. @ Urbandale UHS Baseball: Varsity vs. Waukee,

5 p.m. @ Urbandale DMCS Softball: JH vs West

Central Valley, 10 a.m. @ Home DMCS Baseball: JV/V vs. Van

Meter, 3:45/5:45 @ Home DMCS Softball: JV/V vs. Van

Meter, 5:30/7 p.m. @ Home

Tuesday June 16




City Council Lunch & Learn Work Session, 11:45 a.m., City Hall

Blank Park Zoo/ Every Animal Has a Story, 10:30 a.m., Urbandale Public Library

Red Door Press Teen Program, 7-8 p.m., Urbandale Public Library

UHS Baseball: JV vs. Valley, 11:30 a.m. @ Urbandale

DMCS Baseball: 9th vs. Woodward-Granger, 10 a.m. @ Home

Wednesday June 17


Park and Recreation Commission Meeting, 5:30 p.m., City Council Chambers

On the Same Page, 7:30 p.m., Urbandale Public Library

Thursday June 18


Magic Tree House, 10:30 a.m., Urbandale Public Library

UHS Baseball: 9/10th vs. Ottumwa, 11:30 a.m./5 p.m. @ Urbandale

DMCS Baseball: JV/V vs. Woodward, 3:45/5:45 p.m. @ Home

DMCS Softball: JV/V vs. Woodward, 5:40/7 p.m. @ Home


CALENDAR

Friday June 19




Rockin Rob Interactive Musician 10:30 a.m., Urbandale Public Library

UHS Softball: Varsity Invitational @ Urbandale

UHS Softball: JV Invitational, 9 a.m. @ Urbandale

DMCS Softball: JH vs. ADM, 10 a.m. @ Home

DMCS Baseball: 9th vs. Woodward, 10 a.m. @ Home

Saturday June 20

UHS oftball: Varsity Invitational @ Urbandale

Pioneer Wedding, 9 a.m. -4 p.m., Living History Farms

Monday June 22




Urbandale Community Adult Band Concert, 7 p.m., Lions Park Gazebo

Urbandale Public Library Foundation Board meeting, 5 p.m.

Urbandale Public Library Board of Trustees meeting, 5:45 p.m.

UHS Softball: 8th vs. Ankeny, 9 a.m. @ Urbandale

UHS Softball: 9/JV/V vs. Dowling, 1/4:15/6 p.m. @ Urbandale

UHS Baseball: Varsity vs. Dowling, 5 p.m. @ Urbandale

DMCS Baseball: JV/V vs. Ogden, 3:45/5:45 p.m. @ Home

DMCS Softball: JV/V vs. Ogden, 5:30/7 p.m. @ Home

Tuesday June 23




City Council Meeting, 7 p.m., Council Chambers

Brown Bag Book Club, 12 p.m., Urbandale Public Library

Wednesday June 24


Baseball: 9/10th vs. Lincoln, 11:30 a.m./5 p.m. @ Urbandale

Thursday June 25


Brown Bag Book Club, 12 p.m., Urbandale Public Library

Thursday Night Movie, 6-9 p.m., Urbandale Public Library

UHS Softball: 8th vs. Johnston, 9 a.m. @ Urbandale

UHS Baseball: 9/10th vs. Johnston, 11:30 a.m./5 p.m. @ Urbandale

DMCS Baseball: JV/V vs. Guthrie

Center, 3:45/5:45 p.m. @ Home DMCS Softball: JV/V vs. Guthrie

Center, 5:30/7 p.m. @ Home

Friday June 26




David Casas Award Winning Magician, 10:30 a.m., Urbandale Public Library

LEGO Club, 4-5 p.m., Urbandale Public Library

Saturday June 27

Intro to ATS Belly Dance - Mommy and Me Workshop, 2:15 p.m., Arts Central

Monday June 29




2nd Annual Brad Peyton Memorial Golf Tourney,11 a.m.-8 p.m., Hyperion Field Club

UHS Baseball: 9/10th vs. Fort Dodge, 11:30 a.m./5 p.m. @ Urbandale

DMCS Baseball: 9th vs. Pleasantville, 10 a.m. @ Home

Tuesday June 30




Anime Club, 6-7 p.m., Urbandale Public Library

DMCS Baseball: JV/V vs. West Central Valley, 3:45/5:45 p.m. @ Home

DMCS Softball: JV/V vs. West Central Valley, 5:30/7 p.m. @ Home

Wednesday July 1


UHS Softball: 9/JV/V vs. Ankeny, 1/4:15/6 p.m. @ Urbandale

UHS Baseball: Varsity vs. Ankeny, 5 p.m. @ Urbandale

DMCS Baseball: 9th vs. Martensdale, 10 a.m. @ Home

DMCS Baseball: JV/V vs. Eddyville, 3:45/5:45 p.m. @ Home

Thursday July 2


Have a calendar entry for the next issue of Urbandale Living? Send your information to: [email protected].

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REAL ESTATE

H ere are five reasons to put your home on the market!.

Foot traffic refers to the number of people out actually physically looking at homes right now. The latest foot traffic numbers show that there are more prospective purchasers currently looking at homes than at any other time in the last 12 months which includes last spring’s buyers’ market. Take advantage of the buyer activity cur-rently in the market.

-tion now. Housing supply just dropped to 4.7 months, which is under the six months’ supply that is needed for a normal housing market. This means, in many areas, there are not enough homes for sale to satisfy the number of buy-ers in that market. Homeowners are now seeing a return to posi-tive equity as real estate values have increased over the last two years. New construction of single-family homes is again beginning to increase. The choices buyers have will continue to increase. Don’t wait until all this other inventory of homes comes to market before you sell.

quicker. One of the biggest chal-lenges of the housing market in recent times has been the length of time it takes from contract to clos-ing. Banks are requiring more and more paperwork before approv-ing a mortgage. As the market heats up, banks will be inundated with loan inquiries causing closing timelines to lengthen. Selling now will make the process quicker and simpler.

If you are moving up to a larger, more expensive home, consider doing it now. Prices are projected to appreciate by over 19.3 percent from now to 2019. If you are mov-ing to a higher priced home, it will wind up costing you more in raw dollars (both in down payment and mortgage payment) if you wait. You can also lock in your 30-year housing expense with an interest rate near 4 percent right now. Rates are projected to increase by about three quarters of a percent by the end of 2015. with your life. Is money more important than being with family? Is money more important than your health? Is money more important than having the freedom to go on with your life the way you think you should? Only you know the answers to the questions above. The time has come for you and your family to move on and start living the life you desire.

Information provided by Jon Smith, Iowa Realty Beaverdale office, 3521 Beaver Ave., 240-2692.

5 reasons why now is the time

By Jon Smith, Iowa Realty

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Information by Holly Bernal, CCUFC, Chief Operations Officer at Midland Credit Union, 2891 106th St., Urbandale, 515-278-1994.-

CREDIT UNION

D o you suffer from FOMO? For those not in the know, FOMO is an acronym that

stands for Fear Of Missing Out. It’s that sensation in the back of your mind that makes you go out even when you’re tired. It’s the reason you go to the concert featuring that band you don’t even like that much because your friends are going. How much influence does this fear have on today’s millennials? A recent Eventbrite survey found that 78 percent of 18- to 34-year-olds prefer to “invest in experi-ences instead of things.” Seventy percent cited FOMO by name as a motivator for their financial decisions. But seeking out adven-tures, rather than investing in your future, has consequences.

It’s not a coincidence that this same group is suffering finan-cial hardship. Millennials have the highest debt percentage and low-est credit scores, according to Experian. The same study also finds that half of millennials were late on at least one payment last year. Let’s look at three ways you can use the Fear Of Missing Out to feed your financial future — rather than your financial fears. Road tripping with friends across the country could produce some priceless memories. What could be even more priceless, though, is getting to take that trip with your spouse and family once you’ve retired. Cutting your travel budget now and putting the extra into an

IRA is the difference between a life of leisure and dying at your desk. Don’t think of it as not having wonderful experiences. Think of it as investing in future adventures -ership. The biggest difference in wealth for older generations is time in home ownership. If you’re renting, your housing money goes out the window each month. You don’t build equity and you have to keep making that payment as long as you live there. With a mortgage, the money you pay each month stays with you as you build equity. Once you pay the mortgage off, your housing costs plummet. security. Fifty-eight percent of millennials live paycheck-to-paycheck. Setting aside money in

an emergency fund can help you escape that cycle. A few hundred dollars in a savings account can provide a great deal of peace of mind. It’s a tremendous comfort to know that, even if an unexpected expense crops up, you’ve got rent and other basics covered. Fighting Fear Of Missing Out is a challenge. You only live once, as another generational acronym (YOLO) reminds us. Don’t use that as an excuse to not think about the future. Live an enthusi-astic, out-loud life in a financially responsible way.

Do you live for now or for the future?

By Holly Bernal, CCUFC, Midland Credit Union

FOMO: the fear of missing out

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PET HEALTH

S pring storm season has arrived. During this time, people practice emergency

drills to prepare for weather or other disasters. Many families have household emergency plans, but does your plan include your pets? Our pets are part of our families, and they depend on us for their safety and well-being. Taking time to plan is the best way to help protect your entire family.

Emergencies take different forms. You should prepare plans to care for your pets at home and have an evacuation plan. Making a “pet survival kit” can help you at moment’s notice. Identify safe shelters for your pets away from home. Make a list of motels, boarding facilities or shelters that will accept pets. Keep in mind that many public shelters will not accept pets. Prepare at least three days of pet essentials such as food, bottled water, medica-tions, veterinary records, litter pans, dishes and first aid kits. Include current photos of pets, carriers, secure leashes, collars and harnesses. Make sure your pet’s ID tags are current with phone numbers and consider microchipping all pets.

If you seek refuge in your home during a disaster, first make sure all pets are brought inside early. Some pets may be afraid of storms, and they can sense the impending weather hours before it arrives. Secure them in safe areas before they hide or run away. Keep cats and dogs sepa-rated when possible. Even if pets normally get along, the stress of the situation may cause them to act irrationally. Protect small chil-

dren around pets as well. If your pets have severe storm anxiety, talk to your veterinarian about treatment options, and keep medications handy if needed. If you have no alternative but to leave your pets behind, con-fine them to a safe area inside. Leave them loose with plenty of food and water. Remove toilet tank lids, raise the seats and block bathroom doors open so they have access to water. Place a visible notice outside alerting officials to the type of animals inside and their location. Provide phone numbers where you can be reached. After disasters be sure to keep pets on a leash or in ken-nels. Pets are often scared, and there may be damage and dangers including downed power lines, toxic chemicals and wildlife in the area. Familiar scents and land-marks may be altered causing confusion. The best way to protect your pet is to plan ahead. Contact your veterinarian, the Red Cross or Humane Society for more infor-mation.

Information provided by Kristin DeVries, DVM, Pet Medical Center, 4450 128th St., Urbandale, 515-331-9035.

They depend on you for safety and well-being

Include your pet in emergency plansBy Kristin DeVries, DVM, Pet Medical Center

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FAITH

A new Pew Research Center study says the number of people iden-tifying as “Christian” in America is declining. Nearly 20 percent of American adults who were raised as Christians no longer identify as one, and nearly 25 percent describe themselves as agnostic, atheistic or of “no preference.” This decline is against a backdrop of the fastest growth of the world-wide church in history, so how can this be? The American church is actu-ally a product of the 313 Edict of Milan, when Roman Emperor Constantine decriminalized Christianity, and the persecuted house church emerged from the shadows. This newly legitimized church began to build extrava-gantly, professionalize its clergy and exchange favors with govern-ments, but today these are the churches — mostly of Europe and North America — that are declin-ing. At the same time, the fast growing world church — mostly of Asia, Africa, and South America — is rising from the soil of pov-erty and persecution, and without government favor. It is pre-Con-stantinian, and dependent upon the Holy Spirit for its daily life. The declining church is largely institu-tional, while the growing church is largely organic. For many in America, being Christian means as little as checking a box on a survey, but for marginalized world Christians, it means obediently fol-lowing Jesus. Obedience is what Jesus demands, and he always prefers a

small band of true followers over an uncommitted crowd. In John 6 he “tightens the clamps” with some hard teachings, and many begin to complain. He doesn’t back down and says, “The words I have spoken to you are spirit and they are life,” and with that, many of the crowd turn back and no longer fol-low him. Then he turns to his disciples and asks, “Do you also want to leave?” Peter answers, “Master, to whom would we go? You have the words of real life, eternal life.” Even as Christianity declines in America, many are finding Peter’s words to be true: “You have the words of real life, eternal life.” It is a difficult day for the institutional church, but the organic church is thriving and is rapidly gaining ground in America as it overflows onto our shores. And for those who are checking “no preference” in some religious survey, the great-est discovery is yet to be made — that regardless of the crowd’s opinion, Jesus remains the source for both real life and eternal life.

Discovering Jesus beyond the crowdBy Pastor Alan Johnson, Urban Heights Covenant Church

Organic church is gaining followers

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W hat do fitness and get-ting Internet installed at a business have in

common? Up until five months ago, I would say not much. But as a consumer, my experience in trying to get Internet for my studio made me take a step back and re-evalu-ate my decision-making process.

When you open a new busi-ness, you expect to run into set-backs. Often it’s not the issues that you expect that get you derailed. My Achilles heel was the Internet. After running into obstacles in getting broadband/DSL, I chose a company that offered the cheapest price and promised quick results.

I didn’t look into the reputa-tion of the company. I didn’t check to see if this was an area of exper-tise for them. It’s a Fortune 500 company, so I assumed that the salespeople and engineers knew what they were doing and would provide me with Internet in the stated amount of time and at a cheaper cost than their competi-tor.

In hindsight, I should have checked their reputation. If I had, I would not have been quick to base my choice on cost and “promised” installation date.

So what does this experience have to do with fitness? Often, as consumers, we look at price or “instant” results as the deciding factors in fitness rather than look-ing at our long-term goals.

Is finding the cheapest price at a gym and then going for a couple of months (weeks?) but not really seeing results, losing motivation and falling back on old habits, really the most cost effective way

of trying to get fit? If you’re not getting the results that you ulti-mately want then you are wasting your money no matter how much or little you are spending. Then there’s the get fit/lose weight fast dynamic. If your ulti-mate goal is to live a healthy life-style long term, you can’t expect to do a 10-week program and then go back to your old lifestyle and keep the weight off and stay fit. You need to choose a program that you enjoy, that’s sustainable and that works for you. So be a wise consumer. You only have one body. Investing in your health and well-being for the long run is one of the most cost effective things you can do.

Information provided by Julie Bautista of Orangetheory Fitness, 2171 N.W. 111th St., Clive, 207-3430.

It’s not worth it if it doesn’t work

The cost and results dilemmaBy Julie Bautista

FITNESS

How you feel when you hit your fitness goals — and have Internet.

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EDUCATION

H igh school guidance coun-selors do more than help students select courses

each semester. The professional school counselors at Urbandale High School work closely with students as they make plans for life after high school. According to professional school counselor, Jill Duffield, “Counselors work with students to help with communication, time-management and problem-solving skills, which, in turn, will assist with relationships and responsibili-ties in college and on the job.” The process of deciding what to do after high school starts as early as ninth and 10th grade. Duffield works in a team of profes-sional school counselors consisting of Tracy Edwards, Eric Sackett and Darlene Wagner to help students formulate plans. Through the pro-gram I Have a Plan Iowa (IHAPI), students start exploring majors, colleges, and career opportunities as well as personal strengths and interests. During their junior year, stu-dents meet with Duffield, Sackett, Edwards, and Wagner for small-group conferences where they dis-cuss college choices, college visits, and taking the ACT. After that, the counselors meet individually with each student to map out plans and ideas. “We talk about college appli-cations, financial aid, scholarships, and answer any questions they may have,” says Duffield. Students are encouraged to visit many types of colleges and

universities to find the fit that is right for them. According to Duffield, “It’s important to get a ‘feel’ for the school to determine what would be a good fit.” Students can also take college courses at community colleges while in high school to get a sense of what college life will be like. For those students who are undecided about plans after high school, the counseling team says there is much that can be done to find a right path. Part-time work, courses at a community col-lege, job shadowing and volunteer-ing are excellent ways to explore interest areas and possible careers. The counselors also encourage students to stay busy and to get involved with something that inter-ests them.

The counselors at Urbandale High School are Eric Sackett and Jill Duffield, back, and Tracy Edwards and Darlene Wagner, front. Photos by Morgan Parkhurst.

Early planning one of the keys to success

By Morgan Parkhurst

Meet the counselors

What are your post-graduate plans?

Erik Miller: “Attend Iowa State to major in engineering.”

Ryan Foreman: “Over the summer, I’ll be in Europe for a month.”

Mallary Erbes: “Next fall I’m going to Wartburg.”

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Information provided by Dr. Heather Yost, DACCP, Yost Family Chiropractic, 3993 100th St., Urbandale.

HEALTH

Q: Would you rather be healthy, or just not sick?Q: Rich… or just not poor? Happy.. or just not sad? See the difference? For those of you who are unfamiliar with my practice and what we do, I own Yost Family Chiropractic and work with hundreds of people and families every single week to help them reach their health goals. I find that so many people have settled. Settled for “just not sick.” If that’s you, it’s important to realize that “healthy” and “just not sick” are not the same thing. Let me explain. Healthy is defined as a complete state of physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Sickness is defined as a condition of being; illness, a disease or malady, nausea or a defective or unsound condition. Sickness typically consists of a set of outward symptoms that you are experiencing. Symptoms show us that the brain and the body aren’t working together (and possibly haven’t been working together for awhile). Symptoms are like the peak of the ice-berg, and the question would be…. What’s underneath what we see? You get one body, one life, and what you do for your health right now determines your quality of life in the future. Don’t wait until you’re “sick” to get checked by various providers. So many doctors, from dentists to optom-etrists to chiropractors and massage therapists offer “wellness screenings” to see how well your brain and body are working together. Schedule your checkups now and see how well your body is functioning.

W alk, hop, slither, swim or drive to the sev-enth annual Urbandale

Public Library Pet Show on Thursday, June 4 at 1:30 p.m. The pet show celebrates pets, encour-ages animal awareness and offers fun for the entire family — espe-cially for your beloved pets. Pets of all types and sizes are welcome and will receive their very own participation ribbon. Your pet also gets to have its picture taken with their favorite humans and can show off their special talents at our pet tricks showcase. We have treats for the humans, too. We’ll have free pop-corn, pet show temporary tattoos, and snow cones from UCAN. The pet show will also include educa-tional booths on pet health and safety, a pet parade and dog agil-ity demonstrations from Canine Craze Performance Center. You might even win one of our awe-some door prizes donated by one of our local sponsors.

Summer Reading ProgramsWhen school is out, it’s time for the Summer Reading Program. This year the theme is “Every Hero Has a Story” and kids of all ages are invited to participate in the fun. Tiny Titans (age 12 months to 2 years), Incredibles (3 to 6 years), Justice League (7 to 11 years), and Avengers (12 to 18 years) will all have the chance to enjoy books and win prizes all

summer long. The first session of this year’s program runs fthrough Saturday, June 27. The second ses-sion will be held from Sunday, June 28 through Saturday, July 25. You can pick up your reading log at the library now. We will also have some fun performances at the library to keep you entertained all summer long. Your favorite performers will all be here, including ventriloquist Kevin Horner on June 11 and 12, Rockin’ Rob on June 19 and magi-cian David Casas on June 25 and 26. Check out all of our summer

programs on our website or pick up a summer reading brochure at the library.

Adult summer reading Summer reading programs aren’t just for kids. Adults can “Escape the Ordinary” by joining the adult summer reading program at the library. All you have to do is read. Get started by picking up a reading packet at any library service desk through July 25. Everyone will be eligible to win prizes donated by the Urbandale Hy-Vee.

LIBRARY NEWS

Urbandale Public Library3520 86th St.278-3945Hours: Mon.-Thur.: 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. Fri.-Sat.: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday: 1-5 p.m.

All types and sizes are welcome

By Urbandale Public Library staff

Pet show at the Urbandale Library


FINANCE

Information provided by Matt Stahr, president, VisionPoint, 1601 Westlakes Parkway #200, West Des Moines, (800) 282-4032.

T he six questions below can help you to start thinking about and planning for the

conversations needed with aging parents:

introduce the topic of your parents’ financial needs and goals? When you do decide it’s time to “have the talk,” tactfully make clear what you would like to discuss, but also let your parents know you respect their privacy.

they are staying on top of their finances? Are bills getting paid on time? Are investments being monitored?

Are they taking advan-tage of direct deposit, online bill paying, etc., to help simplify their financial life? If your parents aren’t com-fortable with technology and/or using a computer, offer to help or ask another trusted family member to chip in.

an estate plan, and is it up to date? At a minimum your parents should have a will. If they don’t, then the court system will step in and distribute their assets as it sees fit.

Another option is placing assets in an irrevocable living trust. Income taxes on revenue-gener-ating assets placed in such a trust are paid by the trust itself, not by them. In addition, the assets in the trust are not considered part of your parents’ estate and are therefore not subject to estate taxes when they both pass away. However, “irrevocable” means that generally they cannot change beneficiaries or trustees once

they are chosen; your parents also relinquish control of their assets once they are placed in the trust. -ents understand the poten-tial benefits of the power of attorney designation? A power of attorney is a legal docu-ment that names an individual who will be charged with making finan-cial or legal decision on behalf of another person, often a parent. a long-term care insurance policy? The average cost of a private room in a nursing home — now topping $87,000 annually nationwide — can put a tremen-dous financial burden on a family.1. For more information about any of the issues discussed above, contact a financial advisor. This communication is not intend-ed to provide tax and/or legal advice and should not be treated as such. Each individual’s situation is differ-ent. We suggest that you discuss your specific situation with a qualified investment, tax, or legal advisor. Source/Disclaimer: 1Genworth Cost of Care Survey, March 25, 2014.

Introducing the topic of financial needs and goals

Six questions to ask older parentsBy Matt Stahr

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M eet Princess Hailey, 4, of Conard’s Castle in Urbandale.

OK, so Hailey Conard doesn’t live in a real castle, but dad, Greg Cordon, does all that he can to make sure his little girl feels like a princess each and every day. Proof positive of the proud dad’s embellishments can be found right in the Cordon’s front yard. For Hailey’s third birthday, Conard built her an exact replica of the famous children’s show, Thomas the Tank Engine and a monorail track for her to safely drive him on. “My daughter loves Thomas the Tank Engine, and she was too young for a go-cart,” he says. “Thomas is my friend!” Hailey beams with pride. According to Conard, the train engine was patterned off a frame designed for a barstool racer a few years ago. The rest of the train is a mixture of ideas and parts, with the frame built from one-inch square tubes. The boiler area is the same tubing, heated and bent around a 22-inch semi wheel. Conard says that the trans-mission comes from a riding lawn

mower. The original engine was an eight hp Briggs that vibrated and smoked a lot. “It now has a balanced 12 hp that doesn’t smoke, to my daugh-ter’s disappointment. She worries that Thomas is running out of steam when there’s no smoke com-ing out of his stack,” he says. Hailey’s mom, Jen, had just one major stipulation when it came to the building of a motorized toy for her daughter. Safety. “It’s a little scary for a first-time mama having something with a motor built for her. I was ‘on board’ when I saw how safe it really would be,” she says. “The idea for the steering came from memories of the cars at the Bavarian Village that was at Adventureland when I was a kid,” Greg says. “Most of the parts were either custom fabricated by me or came from garden tractors and vehicles that I’ve accumulated over the years. The face and numbers were produced by a vinyl lettering shop.” Future building plans at the Conard house include a “Tidmouth Shed” for Thomas this summer, with a little playhouse on top.

Greg Cordon built a replica of Thomas the Tank Engine for his daughter, Hailey. Photo by Lisa Verhey-Budding.

Hailey has her own custom-built locomotive

By Lisa Verhey-Budding

Thomas the Train

Contact Darren at 953-4822 ext. 304 or darrenatdm-cityview.com to recommend someone for an upcoming issue of “What’s In Your Garage?”

WHAT’S IN YOUR GARAGE?OUT AND ABOUT

Karen Goldsworth, Chamber chair, and Jahna Duda, secondary principal, present Carolyn Oakes with the Chamber’s first Educator of the Year award at Des Moines Christian School on May 21.

Cheryl Ross-Riker at the Do Overz Ribbon Cutting on May 1.

Joan Ellis and Molly Catron at the Do Overz ribbon cutting on May 1.

Bill Grund and Michael Sadler at the Do Overz Ribbon Cutting on May 1.


OUT AND ABOUT

Devonne Douglas and Christy Jones Jennifer Gibson and Karla Ranger

JT Mull, Steve Phalen and John Mull Walt Sankey and Brandon Webster Rick Fleming, Bob Miller and Gary Car

Les Davis and Sue Davis Cynthia Letsch, Sue Anthony, Nancy Cook and Glenda Durst

Bob Vedral, Pat McGoldrick, Connie McGoldrick, Jerry Kiester and Lois Kiester

Dean McClaflin, LeeAnn Jones, Richard Jones and Marie McClaflin

Craig Moberg, Dan Anderson and Vicky Anderson Carmella Sankey and Teresa Hopper

A ribbon cutting ceremony was held for R Jones Collision 1 on May 5.

Ribbon cutting


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Loving, professional Pet Care

in your home Mid-day dog walks

Curt’s Creature Comfort

Serving Northwestern Polk County, 50021, 50023, 50111, 50131, 50310,

50311, 50312, 50313, 50322

BONDED AND INSURED

943-2301 www.curtscreaturecomfort.com

LUDWIGROOFING INC.

ResidentialRoofing

est. 1985

“We Hand Nail”

INSUREDFree Estimates

270-9643Windsor Heights

A+ RATINGWITH

ACCREDITEDBUSINESS

G

CARDS

www.iowalivingmagazines.com/urbandale Urbandale Living JUNE | 2015www.adelwintersettv.com

916 Main Street, Adel, IA515-993-4287

Monday - Friday 8-6Saturday 8-2

224 Hwy. 92, Winterset, IA515-462-2939

Monday-Friday 9-5Saturday 9-2

Baskets

Meat Claws

Injectors

Charcoal

Custom Cooking Islands!

ALL IN STOCK!

Introducing the NEW

MiniMax!

Large

Mini

Extra Large

Medium

Small

Extra portable for small spaces, picnics and tailgating!

Pizza Tools

WE HAVE THE BEST SELECTION & PRICES IN CENTRAL IOWA.

NEW Holland Grills also in stock!

LARGE SELECTION of EGGcessories,

Wood Chunks, Charcoal, Spices, Rubs, and Sauces

in stock now!

JUNE | 2015 Urbandale Living www.iowalivingmagazines.com/urbandale

4770 Merle Hay Road Des Moines515-253-0719 800-652-0048www.HummelsNissan.com

* Starting price of the 2015 Murano vehicle. Vehicle shown is a Platimun UWD model for illustration purposes. With approved NMAC financing.

2015 NISSAN

$29,560*STARTINGMSRP

®

SHEET METAL IN THEKEY OF STUNNING

21 MPGCTY

MPGHWY28

Inspired by the future of aerospace, Murano’s striking

aerodynamic body looks as though it was shaped by the wind.

The fluid profile begins with the V-Motion Grille and

sweeps into a signature floating roofline that appears to

hover above the cabin and ends at rear side pillars

that resemble a jet’s tail

0% 60 MOS. PLUS $500 NMAC CASH*

june 2015 50322/50323 - iowa living magazines this month’s cover story, ... “we got the lizard...

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